Potter County is located in far northwestern corner of Pennsylvania near Lake Erie's southern shoreline and borders McKean & Cameron Counties on east; Tioga on south ; Clinton Buffalo & Elk Counties on west while Lycoming makes up northern boundary line according US Census Bureau -potter had 17187 individuals living there 2020 making it one smallest counties both population density area size wise ( 587sq mi ) . Much like other parts region coal mining developed 19th century still remains major industries today while now attracting tourism due ample recreational activities provide parks visitors offering hiking hunting fishing camping skiing etc.